Anders
Biography
Anders is a male name in Scandinavian languages and Fering North Frisian, an equivalent of the Greek Andreas ("manly") and the English Andrew. It originated from Andres via metathesis. In Sweden, Anders has been one of the most common names for many centuries, with the earliest attestation in 1378. It was common among priests and farmers during medieval times. According to Statistics Sweden, as of December 31, 2021, it ranks 4th among male names. The great frequency of this name at the time (around 1900) when patronymics were converted into family names is the reason why 1 in every 30 Swedes today is called Andersson. The name day of Anders in the Scandinavian calendar is November 30, and in old peasant superstition, that day was important for determining Christmas weather.
Highlights
- Common male name in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries.
- First attested in 1378.
- Ranked 4th among male names in Sweden in 2021.
- 1 in 30 Swedes has the surname Andersson.
FAQ
What is the origin of the name Anders?
Anders is of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Greek Andreas.
When was it first attested?
It was first attested in 1378.
What is Anders' rank among male names in Sweden?
It ranks 4th among male names in Sweden in 2021.
